Historic Discovery: Second-Largest Diamond Unearthed in Botswana

A Canadian company, Lucara Diamond, has discovered a rough diamond weighing 2,492 carats at the Karowe mine in Botswana, making it the largest diamond ever found in the country and the second-largest in the world. This find exceeds the previous record set in 2019 and underscores Botswana’s vital role in global diamond production, which accounts for approximately 20% of the market.

A remarkable discovery has been made in Botswana, where a rough diamond weighing an astonishing 2,492 carats has been found at the Karowe mine operated by the Canadian company Lucara Diamond. This diamond is recognized as the second-largest ever discovered, following the renowned 3,106-carat Cullinan diamond that was unearthed in South Africa in 1905 and which has since been cut into several notable pieces within the British Crown Jewels. According to the Botswana government, this newly found diamond is the largest ever recorded within the nation. This significant find surpasses the previous largest diamond discovered in Botswana, a 1,758-carat stone found at the same mine in 2019. Currently, Botswana stands as a powerhouse in diamond production, contributing approximately 20% to the global market. Lucara Diamond has expressed its excitement regarding this extraordinary recovery, marking it as one of the largest rough diamonds ever recovered, utilizing their advanced Mega Diamond Recovery X-ray technology.

The discovery of the 2,492-carat diamond in Botswana highlights not only the nation’s rich diamond resources but also its global significance in diamond production. Botswana has long been recognized as a top player in the diamond industry, with extensive deposits and successful mining operations contributing significantly to the economy. The technology employed by Lucara Diamond in locating this massive stone underscores the advancements in diamond mining techniques and the potential for future discoveries within the region.

The unearthing of the 2,492-carat diamond at the Karowe mine represents a historic milestone for both Botswana and the global diamond industry. As the second-largest diamond ever found, it not only showcases the capabilities of modern mining technology but also reinforces Botswana’s status as a leading diamond producer. This remarkable find may pave the way for further significant discoveries in the region, continuing to enhance Botswana’s prominence on the international stage.

Original Source: www.bbc.com